Arlen C. West, 70, of Punta Gorda, Florida, passed peacefully into Heaven on Sunday, March 13, 2016 at Bayfront Health in Punta Gorda.
Arlen was born July 28, 1945 in Peoria, IL to Harold B. West II and Virginia Bolliger West. Arlen was a loving son, brother, father and “Pops”, as he was called by his grandchildren. He served with the U.S. Army in the Vietnam War. In his early years, he worked at Hagerty Steel in East Peoria, IL and later with his father at West’s Meats & Locker & Catering in Washington, IL. His favorite job was working as a yacht captain, which he had the pleasure to do for many years. Arlen was happiest while boating, playing piano, singing and spending time with family & friends.
Surviving are three children: Rachel (Scott) Kramer of Germantown Hills, IL, Gretchen West of Bloomington, IL, Megan West of Metamora, IL and their mother Rebecca Kennel Oltman of Minonk, IL; one brother Harold B. West III of Carlton, KY and sister Jeannine (Dick) Davenport of Parrish, FL; four grandchildren: Maria and Weston Kramer and Taylor and Brayden Lowery; nephew Jason West & niece Amber West Hooste. He was preceded in death by his parents.
A Celebration of Life Gathering will be at 4:00 pm on Thursday, March 24, 2016 at Fisherman’s Village at Harpoon Harry’s Restaurant, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda, FL. Cremation rites have been accorded.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hands of Love Ministry, 704 Devon Drive, Germantown Hills, IL 61548 or His Harvest Ministries, PO Box 5326, Bloomington, IL 61702-5326.
Friends may visit online at www.robersonfh.com to extend condolences to the family. Arrangements are by Roberson Funeral Homes & Crematory, Punta Gorda Chapel.